The growth recorded in the production and export of heavy vehicles during October 2026 could be temporary, because part of the rebound is due to advance purchases in the United States in anticipation of new emissions standards, warned the National Association of Bus, Truck and Tractor Producers (ANPACT) .
During the presentation of the October results, Rogelio Arzate, executive president of ANPACT, explained that the US market is bringing forward acquisitions of heavy vehicles in anticipation of the transition from EPA 2024 standards to EPA 2027, a situation that has favored the demand for units manufactured in Mexico.
This behavior contributed to national production reaching 16,375 units during October, an increase of 129.6% year-on-year, while exports totaled 13,518 vehicles, with a growth of 158.9% compared to the same month in 2025.
However, the association warned that these results do not guarantee a sustained recovery for the industry, particularly given the uncertainty surrounding the trading conditions that will prevail in North America.
“It’s a temporary issue. We shouldn’t declare victory over this,” Arzate said during the conference.
Trade conditions, key for 2027
Continued growth will also depend on the tariff conditions faced by Mexican heavy vehicles in the United States.
Currently, according to ANPACT, heavy vehicles are subject to a 25% tariff on their non-U.S. content, under Section 232, so the association is seeking preferential treatment for Mexico within the framework of the North American trade relationship.
In this regard, Arzate reported that they are maintaining contact with the Ministry of Economy to promote a reduction in tariffs, considering that Mexico should have more favorable conditions compared to countries that are not part of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).
The CEO of ANPACT insisted that the positive performance of production and exports should be analyzed with caution, since its continuity will depend both on the evolution of US demand and on the trade policies that are defined for the region.
The association noted that these factors will be crucial for the end of 2026 and the industry’s performance during the coming year.
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